Tulips and Ducks

With a photo challenge about nature, we took a ride in to DC in search of a suitable image. It was almost the end of tulip season and I wanted to check out the Enid Haupt garden by the Smithsonian castle. They always have a beautiful display of seasonal flowers and bulbs. The magnolias are sensational, and everything else is candy for the eyes. We parked by the American Indian museum and found some ducks in the pond by the new memorial. But the tulips at the gardens were extraordinary - just about every size, color and shape was on display. There was a lone duck at the pool by the castle. He was actually posing for his portrait. He even called to us when we left him. At the Capitol reflecting pool there were many pairs of ducks scooting about. The ramps were up for the soon to be ducklings to navigate the steep sides of the pool with a reminder not to feed them. And as always, the botanical garden also has a share of tulips. From many angles a photo of the Capitol is in easy range. It was a beautiful day and the flowers and ducks cooperated for some lovely images.